According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, the San Diego Padres may not be able to sign their superstar first baseman, Adrian Gonzalez, to a long-term contract extension.
Team owner Jeff Moorad sounded less than confident in a statement he made earlier today.
“I think the fairest description of our point of view is that we continue to be committed to doing what’s best for the long-term interest of the organization,” Padres CEO Jeff Moorad said yesterday. “As a result, no player is untouchable. And while we’re mindful of players’ individual popularity, we won’t put one player ahead of the long-term interests of the club.
“I’m confident that (General Manager) Jed (Hoyer) and John Boggs will have a discussion at some point about Adrian and his future. While I’d be thrilled to have him part of the organization for the long term, the early signals indicate his cost will be greater than our ability to pay.”
The Padres still have control over Gonzalez until through the 2011 season, but may choose to move him much like they did with their young ace pitcher Jake Peavy.
John Boggs, the players agent, sounded resigned to he fact his client could be traded.
“I don’t ever want to speak for ownership because I have no knowledge of what they have and what they don’t,” Boggs said. “(But) the feeling we’re getting is more than likely (the Padres) are going to have to trade Adrian Gonzalez because (they) can’t afford him.”
Last season, Gonzalez hit .277 with 40 home runs and 99 RBIs. His league high 119 walks gave him a .407 OBP and a .958 OPS. The 27-year old slugger has averaged 35 homers and 105 RBIs in the last three seasons. He will make $4.75 million in 2010, and the Padres hold a $5.5 million option on him for 2011, after which he becomes a free agent.
Obviously, as a Mets fan, the first thought that comes to my mind is whether the Mets have any chance to land the prized first baseman. The cost will no doubt be high, and a fat extension would also have to figure into the equation, but wouldn’t you agree that he would immediately become the Mets’ best player and resuscitate a fan base that is desperate for another significant addition to the team?
His addition may also put to rest any doubts regarding the Wilpon’s commitment to fielding a championship caliber team and the persistent rumors of financial woes.
Most importantly though, the addition of Adrian Gonzalez would certainly give the Mets the most formidable offense in the National League, and in the end that’s the only reason the Mets should pursue a trade with the Padres.
